Over the last two days, I had the privilege of walking alongside Pastor Corey Brooks as part of his Walk Across America for Project H.O.O.D. — a journey aimed at bringing hope, opportunity, and lasting change to communities that need it most. I’ve supported Pastor Brooks for years, but there is something different about being shoulder-to-shoulder with someone on the road they’ve committed themselves to. You see the mission up close. You feel the purpose in every mile.

The People Along the Way

Walking through Richmond offered something you don’t always get in a busy life: space to slow down, take in the environment, and actually connect with the people you meet. We passed the locals, people visiting Richmond, and strangers who stopped to ask what we were walking for. Every conversation had a small spark of curiosity, but many ended with surprise and inspiration once they learned why Pastor Brooks was crossing the country — to raise $25 million for a transformational economic center on the South Side of Chicago.

There’s something powerful about a cause that stops people in their tracks. In two days, I saw firsthand how this mission resonates far beyond Chicago’s borders.

Dinner With the Team

After the miles, the blisters, and the quiet stretches of road, we had a great team dinner at my ABNB that provided down time and a real connection. We ate, made an amazing Walk Across America playlist, traded stories, and recharged for the next leg. There’s a camaraderie that only forms when you share physical effort and a shared purpose — a reminder that big missions aren’t achieved alone.

Those evenings gave us time to breathe, reflect, and appreciate just how many talented, dedicated people are working behind the scenes to support Pastor Brooks’ vision.

Time Alone With Pastor Brooks

But the moments that will stay with me the longest were the one-on-one conversations with Pastor Brooks. When you walk long distances, you talk differently — less filtered, more honest, more human. We talked about leadership, politics, faith, community, and the weight of carrying such an ambitious mission across thousands of miles.

What struck me most is how relaxed and centered he is. Despite the physical challenge and the enormous goal ahead, he doesn’t waver. He believes completely in this mission — and that belief is contagious. Sitting with him, listening to him reflect on the purpose behind every step, I felt a deep sense of calm that he will finish this walk… and he will accomplish everything he set out to do.

A Journey That Leaves an Impact

I came to Richmond to support a friend and a leader. I left with something more: renewed conviction in the power of service, the power of community, and the power of simply showing up — one step at a time.

Walking with Pastor Brooks wasn’t just about the miles. It was about witnessing a man on a mission, seeing the impact firsthand, and remembering that big change doesn’t start with grand gestures. It starts with a single step, repeated again and again with purpose.

I’m grateful for these last two days — for the people we met, the team that carried the energy forward, and the time to truly understand the heart behind this walk.

Finally, if you want more information on the Walk Across America and like to donate to this amazing cause, information can be found here — https://www.projecthood.org/waasignup .. Appreciate the look.